Summer Camps & Research: Catalyzing Social Change & Learning - with Laurie Browne - The Pudding #11
Exploring the Future of Camp Research & its Impact with Laurie Brown
In this episode, hosts Travis Allison and Dr. Mandi Baker discuss the significant research efforts and initiatives undertaken by the American Camp Association to understand and improve summer camps. Special guest Laurie Brown, Ph.D, Senior Director of Innovation and Learning at the ACA, shares insights from her journey as a researcher, as well as some behind-the-scenes info about research grants and the innovative approaches the ACA is exploring to enhance camp programming and outcomes. The discussion also highlights ACA's collaborative projects and future ambitions in camp research, emphasizing the need for our industry as a whole to develop professional support for Camp Pros and recognize their expertise as creative problem solvers.
Episode Guide
00:41 Meet the Hosts and Guest Introduction
01:15 Laurie Brown's Research Journey
03:51 The Family Tree of Camp Researchers
08:18 Character Development Grant and Research Questions
14:13 New Approaches to Research
21:15 Being an “Expert Researcher” in Camping
30:17 Upcoming Research: Accessibility & Inclusion in Camps
35:28 Wellbeing in the Camp Workplace
40:16 How the Camp Industry can be Taken Seriously
45:48 Who Else Should We be Hanging Out With?
Your Hosts:
Dr. Mandi Baker, Researcher - Summer Camp, Outdoor Recreation, Sociology and Hospitality/Tourism - getlamped@gmail.com
Travis Allison, Summer Camp Consultant - Go Camp Pro - travis@gocamp.pro
Laurie Browne, Ph.D, Sr. Director of Innovation and Learning - American Camp Association
Thanks to our sponsors!
The American Camp Association - Illinois
The American Camp Association of Illinois is made up of nearly 289,000 members, volunteers, campers, families, and professionals who believe in the power of camp. We work to disrupt the effects of poverty by providing fundamental services for children and families, and learning opportunities for camp professionals. Learn more about ACA Illinois by visiting acail.org.
Camptivities
You know the impact you want camp to make in a child’s life. But figuring out the day-to-day details can be overwhelming. Let Camptivities help you make that impact by streamlining the creation of your camp activity schedules. Schedule a demo at camptivities.com.
